Minatogawa Jinja: A Sanctuary of Loyalty and History in Kobe
Discover Kobe's Minatogawa Jinja: a serene shrine honoring samurai loyalty and sacrifice, steeped in history and cultural significance.
Minatogawa Jinja, located in the heart of Kobe, is a historically significant Shinto shrine honoring the spirit of Kusunoki Masashige, a 14th-century samurai celebrated for his loyalty and sacrifice. Established in 1872, the shrine stands on the very ground where Kusunoki met his end in the Battle of Minatogawa in 1336, fighting for Emperor Go-Daigo. Kusunoki Masashige's story is one of unwavering devotion. Ordered by the Emperor to attack a much larger rebel army, Kusunoki knowingly faced certain defeat, choosing duty above all else. His final words, "Would that I could serve my country for seven lifetimes!", encapsulate his spirit of self-sacrifice and have made him a national symbol of loyalty. The shrine grounds offer a tranquil escape from the bustling city. Visitors are greeted by traditional torii gates and lush camphor trees, creating a serene atmosphere for reflection. The main hall, rebuilt in 1952 after being destroyed in the bombing of Kobe, showcases post-war shrine architecture and features a ceiling adorned with artwork from across Japan. Beyond the main hall, the shrine complex includes a sub-shrine dedicated to Inari, the god of rice, marked by vibrant red torii gates. The treasure hall displays precious artifacts related to Kusunoki Masashige, including swords, armor, calligraphy, and paintings, some of which are designated Important Cultural Properties. Visitors can also find a bronze statue of the warrior, solemn walkways, and a museum and shrine shop on-site. Throughout the year, Minatogawa Jinja hosts seasonal festivals, providing visitors with a glimpse into local traditions and community spirit.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to experience the shrine's peaceful atmosphere before the crowds arrive.
- Take part in drawing Omikuji (fortune slips) for a fun way to engage with local customs.
- Check out the ceiling artwork inside the main hall, featuring 164 paintings by artists from across Japan.
A brief summary to Minatogawa Jinja
- 3 Chome-1-1 Tamondori, Kobe, 3 Chome Tamondori, Chuo Ward, Hyogo, 650-0015, JP
- +8178-371-0001
- Visit website
- Monday 6:30 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 6:30 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 6:30 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 6:30 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 6:30 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 6:30 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 6:30 am-5:30 pm
Getting There
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Walking
Minatogawa Jinja is conveniently located within walking distance of several transportation hubs and attractions. From Kobe Station (JR Kobe Line), it's a 4-minute walk. From Kosoku Kobe Station (Kobe Kosoku Line), it's only 2 minutes. If you're coming from Harborland Station (Kaigan Subway Line), expect a 6-minute walk. From Kobe Harborland shopping district, it takes about 8 minutes on foot. No costs are involved if you choose to walk.
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Public Transport
Several public transportation options can get you close to Minatogawa Jinja. You can take the JR Kobe Line to Kobe Station, the Kobe Kosoku Line to Kosoku Kobe Station, the Kaigan Subway Line to Harborland Station, or the Seishin-Yamate Subway Line to Okurayama Station. From each of these stations, it's a short walk to the shrine. Subway fares in Kobe are around ¥230 for adults. A City Bus & Subway 1-Day Pass costs ¥1,040.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Kobe, and you can easily catch one from major transportation hubs like Kobe Station or Sannomiya Station. A short taxi ride from Kobe Station to Minatogawa Jinja would likely cost around ¥700-¥1000, considering the base fare and distance. Taxi fares in Kobe start at ¥680 for the first 1.8 km, with an additional ¥316.2 per kilometer.
